Envi Sci Flashcards
What does pH indicate in environmental science?
Indicates acidity or alkalinity; extreme levels can harm aquatic life
pH levels below 7 are acidic, while above 7 are basic or alkaline.
Define Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD).
Amount of oxygen required for microbial breakdown of organic matter in water; high levels indicate pollution
It measures how ‘hungry’ bacteria are for oxygen.
What are Heavy Metals in the context of soil pollution?
Lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic
These metals are toxic and can contaminate soil.
What does Soil Organic Carbon determine?
Soil health and contamination levels
Healthy soil is rich and spongy, while polluted soil is contaminated.
What are Emission Standards?
Limits on emissions from industries and vehicles
They are part of regulatory measures for air pollution control.
What is Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)?
Measures the amount of oxygen needed for chemical oxidation of pollutants in water
High COD indicates a lot of organic matter, which can harm aquatic life.
What does Particulate Matter (PM) refer to?
A mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air
PM2.5 and PM10 are common indicators for fine and coarse particles.
What is the purpose of monitoring pollution indicators?
Track changes over time, assess pollution levels, guide policies and interventions
Define Environmental Quality.
The state of the natural environment, including air, water, and soil
Reflects overall health and sustainability of ecosystems.
What is Dissolved Oxygen?
Oxygen available for aquatic life; lower levels indicate pollution
What is Carbon Monoxide (CO)?
A product of incomplete combustion, indicating vehicle emissions
What does Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) indicate?
Emitted from industrial processes and burning fossil fuels
What is the role of Air Scrubbers?
Remove pollutants from industrial exhaust
What is Bioremediation?
Use microorganisms to breakdown pollutants
It is a method of soil pollution control.
What are Primary Pollutants?
Emitted directly into the atmosphere from identifiable sources
Examples include carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides.
What are Secondary Pollutants?
Formed when primary pollutants react with atmospheric components
Examples include ground-level ozone and acid rain.
What is the goal of wastewater treatment?
Remove contaminants from wastewater before discharge
Protects water bodies and public health.
List the three stages of wastewater treatment.
- Primary Treatment
- Secondary Treatment
- Tertiary Treatment
What happens during Primary Treatment?
Physical removal of large solids, sedimentation of heavier solids, removal of oils and greases
What is involved in Secondary Treatment?
Biological processes to remove dissolved organic matter and reduce BOD
What does Tertiary Treatment focus on?
Further purifying wastewater to remove specific pollutants
Common methods include filtration and disinfection.
What is Phytoremediation?
Use plants to absorb and accumulate pollutants from the soil
What are some sustainable agriculture practices?
- Reduced chemical use
- Crop rotation
- Soil conservation
What is the impact of proper wastewater treatment?
Protects water bodies, prevents pollution, safeguards public health
